Board finds accessory‑structure violation; staff to pursue assistance options for homeowner in hardship

The Municipal Code Enforcement Board found that the detached accessory structure at 12605 North 51st Street violated minimum‑housing and accessory‑structure provisions and ordered the respondent to correct the condition by March 11, 2026.

Code Compliance Officer Laurie Smith described the property’s condition, documented by photographs and multiple inspections. The homeowner, Shahzad (Rana), told the board the garage had been damaged in recent hurricanes and that he was living on fixed retirement income and food assistance, leaving little capacity to pay for repair work. He said he attempted to secure help from county programs and nonprofits but had been told funds were depleted.

Board members and staff discussed options including demolition permits and targeted repairs; staff said demolition permitting is feasible but the demolition work or full repair costs are substantial and may take longer than 30 days. The board adopted a finding of violation, ordered correction by March 11, 2026 and set a $25‑per‑day fine for continued noncompliance. Staff said they would follow up with additional nonprofit referrals and new contacts from the city attorney’s office to identify assistance options.

The board noted the structure is fenced and not readily accessible to children and encouraged the respondent to document any repair or demolition permits and to maintain a neat site while repairs are pursued.